tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38228630779444142262024-03-05T17:16:01.275-08:00The Road to Somewhere...discovering the JOY found throughout the JOurneY.deedubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11141562636137023507noreply@blogger.comBlogger320125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3822863077944414226.post-25873914834076308742013-01-20T16:20:00.002-08:002013-01-20T16:56:04.457-08:00Create a CHEAP Project Life Organizer!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitQ_CLRdu3HCX1lMFmNcl6LDgZ7h9RRgxfyuv10gBLmYWuVTvGnmIfMSHuMVRruLybxxShsm5fzhtAzmhWTi9wY_FbziQgT3Z9cKUjnm5Uw8jVCDOQ5hYGmEqHEj5McwPZkiElHDyr-nDk/s1600/organizer+before.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitQ_CLRdu3HCX1lMFmNcl6LDgZ7h9RRgxfyuv10gBLmYWuVTvGnmIfMSHuMVRruLybxxShsm5fzhtAzmhWTi9wY_FbziQgT3Z9cKUjnm5Uw8jVCDOQ5hYGmEqHEj5McwPZkiElHDyr-nDk/s320/organizer+before.jpg" width="292" /></a><span style="font-family: Helvetica;">
Quite some time ago, I scored a wooden cassette tape holder at my local Goodwill (for only $1.49) just knowing it would come in handy for <em>some</em> future organizing project. So today when I stumbled upon it in my organizing junk yard (where all good organizing pieces go until I can find a use for them), I was so excited!<br />I knew it was going to make a great Project Life organizer for all the little elements I want to keep handy as I start my first PL-esque album. I just removed the slots as needed to "customize" the cubby sizes and viola! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica;">Now everything is right at my fingertips and ready to go! </span><br />
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</span></b><span style="font-family: Helvetica-Bold;"></span><br />deedubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11141562636137023507noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3822863077944414226.post-62298288328907760622011-04-13T20:17:00.000-07:002011-04-18T08:33:13.614-07:00Quite Unique!I just love hearing about new businesses created by people who think a little more out-of-the-box and this morning I discovered just one of those type of companies! YEA!<br />
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_imbRrT5z7LAephZsYbJLAMy655xj1zWz2vkQxs_nFxb6dUJ4jzqJNqoJ-gsDUqZk073ncejcNbZ-0UFiRc2ZMUYuyzPsUrkkzHUa1vGFmtJA_BFNbmlYzbgEMTmpXzMcjzaVSDNe0XFg/s1600/japan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_imbRrT5z7LAephZsYbJLAMy655xj1zWz2vkQxs_nFxb6dUJ4jzqJNqoJ-gsDUqZk073ncejcNbZ-0UFiRc2ZMUYuyzPsUrkkzHUa1vGFmtJA_BFNbmlYzbgEMTmpXzMcjzaVSDNe0XFg/s200/japan.jpg" width="200" /></a>Many of us are addicted to sites like Groupon that allow us to pre-buy goods and services at a great discount. With deals like the one I scored last week (<strong>two</strong> movie tickets <strong>and</strong> a large popcorn for only $10.) What's <strong>not</strong> to love?!! Well, now there is a daily deal site for <em>handmade</em> goods called <a href="http://www.quiteunique.com/signup/r1763272/">Quite Unique</a>! How cool is that?! Getting great deals and supporting our fellow crafters at the same time! </div><br />
Here is just one example of a previous deal....<br />
A charming necklace to benefit Japan Disaster Relief. A unique handmade item with 100% of profits going to Japan...even cooler!!! <br />
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enjoy shopping and helping others at the same time.<br />
-dw.deedubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11141562636137023507noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3822863077944414226.post-9875626869481085482011-04-11T18:45:00.000-07:002011-04-12T07:49:47.603-07:00On the Menu Monday!<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">I realized I haven't eaten a home-cooked meal in over a week! No wonder I'm exhausted and feeling run down. Living on hospital cafeteria and restaurant food is not the best option, but sometimes we just have no choice. Don't get me wrong; I LOVE to eat out! Just not everyday for over a week. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Since I am back home and finally have some down-time, I decided to purge a bunch of magazines (pulling out what I liked and recycling the rest). I found some great tips and inspiration, along with some yummy-sounding recipes I'm excited to try out.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjby2qXC0Fq1YCF46TPswpCrTolSB027EMGkGBsc8waeCYwNlMr3-l_EvDGM_CxtYEi7Sr_DzJ0K0mVmUHPOUrV_vfOxaUs5X-ZYQ1f6LmF5M872jcASlyvRavuKVtcRe6nJzwP4l73xTca/s1600/paris+book.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjby2qXC0Fq1YCF46TPswpCrTolSB027EMGkGBsc8waeCYwNlMr3-l_EvDGM_CxtYEi7Sr_DzJ0K0mVmUHPOUrV_vfOxaUs5X-ZYQ1f6LmF5M872jcASlyvRavuKVtcRe6nJzwP4l73xTca/s200/paris+book.jpg" width="152" /></a>Here's some of what I found:</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">~ Added to my Book Wish List: <em><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Paris-Sweets-Great-Desserts-Pastry/dp/0767906810">Paris Sweets</a></em> by <a href="http://www.doriegreenspan.com/">Dorie Greenspan</a>. It is a story of her love of pastries and Paris complete with whimsical drawings and yummy recipes I can't wait to try. She also has a blog....check it out.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">~ Precious/Sorrento Cheese is offering a FREE 46-page <a href="http://www.greatcheese.com/lasagna/sorrento.php">downloadable</a> pasta cookbook. </div><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">~ Rachael Ray Magazine and On-Cor announced a contest to win a NYC Rachael Ray Show Getaway Package! Enter <a href="http://www.rachaelraymag.com/partners/on-cor?keycode=ZONCORCP">here</a>.....Good luck!</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">~ Have you noticed how mini-desserts are all the rave now? These shot glasses of decadence somehow make us feel less guilty because of their tiny size. As if calories only count on full size servings. Or maybe it's so we can have a sampling of more than one flavor? I'm not sure, but I agree....I love them! Move over Cheesecake Factory and PF Changs, I may just serve up my own mini- dessert bar at my next gathering!</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLJzFMu_ZDLk7mgz33IpeAIKoHDaJEIdT1_1Yc0qh5-DQeRAJaBTY55qwV6XPeWeMWG9asjQymJmQP7iZ_hxG5vbNjmlmXEymc_4KjERrIydsbAJr9V-tscIqpyPJjpUfaKswidV3jZ33r/s1600/Tasting-Party_90.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_540287110"><img border="0" height="169" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLJzFMu_ZDLk7mgz33IpeAIKoHDaJEIdT1_1Yc0qh5-DQeRAJaBTY55qwV6XPeWeMWG9asjQymJmQP7iZ_hxG5vbNjmlmXEymc_4KjERrIydsbAJr9V-tscIqpyPJjpUfaKswidV3jZ33r/s200/Tasting-Party_90.jpg" width="200" /></a></a><a href="http://www.pier1.com/TopMenu/GetInspired/TastingParty/tabid/889/Default.aspx">Pier 1 Imports</a> offers up a wonderful guide to hosting Tasting parties. their website is packed with great ideas and recipes. Here is one that I am anxious to test out:</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Serve in 12 mini shot glasses.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">3 tbsp butter, melted</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">1 cup graham cracker crumbs</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">1 tsp sugar</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">8-oz cream cheese, softened</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">1/4 tsp vanilla</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">1 tbsp milk</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">4 oz baking chocolate or chocolate chips</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">8-oz whipped topping</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">chocolate shavings or wafers for garnish</div><ul><li><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Melt butter in microwave bowl, add cracker crumbs and sugar, mix thoroughly. Place about a teaspoon of mixture in the bottom of each glass. Press down.</div></li>
<li><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese and vanilla until fluffy.</div></li>
<li><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">In smaller microwavable mixing bowl, melt together milk and chocolate until melted and creamy. Add to cream cheese mixture, mix thoroughly. gently fold in whipped topping. </div></li>
<li><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Fill each glass to the top with chocolate mousse. Garnish with a dollop of whipped topping and chocolate shavings or wafers.</div></li>
</ul><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Enjoy the "little" things in life!</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">-dw.</div>deedubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11141562636137023507noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3822863077944414226.post-17671946112215545982011-03-29T12:04:00.000-07:002011-03-29T12:07:56.117-07:00All Things....Big and Small<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfoU74wUNCbKCsD8-v8mx5whWbTVdw89vGEoGX6122TLjg66tgXQF644i-1BC2TkNonIW2EdfQgj9xZbOgnXlhk6xlxX8uLj2g4KgidM0CoILh55cSm66UnL0kjioC6oAIdZ1_UTiXIDY6/s1600/mel-photo+043.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" r6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfoU74wUNCbKCsD8-v8mx5whWbTVdw89vGEoGX6122TLjg66tgXQF644i-1BC2TkNonIW2EdfQgj9xZbOgnXlhk6xlxX8uLj2g4KgidM0CoILh55cSm66UnL0kjioC6oAIdZ1_UTiXIDY6/s320/mel-photo+043.jpg" width="320" /></a>Sometimes life throws out a curve ball. Something happens that makes us re-evaluate <em>everything</em>. Things that once seemed important, suddenly lose their priority in the daily routine. Things are just different.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">The day after Valentine's Day was that kind of day. After spending two great days celebrating love and the little things in life, my family was dealt a BIG thing. We received the phone call no one ever wants to get. The one saying one of your family members is suddenly and unexpectedly....gone. Forever. Just like that. No time to say goodbye; no time to remember to do or say the things you were thinking. Just gone.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Suddenly the things I write about here seemed trivial and unimportant. I couldn't bring my fingers to the keyboard without thinking there just isn't anything I can say that is significant enough in this moment. So I took a hiatus. I needed time to let my heart grieve and for my head to try and make sense of what was happening. And now a month and a half later, my fingers return to the keyboard and I pay homage to the little things. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div>My cousin was an avid reader; a lover and collector of books. She had great passionate for what she believed in. She was a strong advocate for her children. She dared to travel her own path in life; to be her own person. She loved to roller skate in the living room when she was little. She gave a smile to you every time you saw her. These little things made up who she was and how she will be remembered. <br />
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And so, in her honor, I will return to writing about the little things that make up <em>my</em> world and who I am. Living life doing the things I want to be remembered for. Organizing, writing, scrapbooking, and decorating might seem trivial to others.....but these truly are the little things that make up who I am. And I owe it to the girl who wouldn't let others dictate how she should live <em>her</em> life, to live mine doing what makes <em>me</em> feel<span style="background-color: white;"> fulfilled. </span><br />
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Rest in peace, Carole. I hope heaven has a really big library, an endless-supply of homemade cinnamon rolls, and maybe even...a place to roller skate! <br />
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enjoy the little things and the people you love <em><strong>everyday</strong></em>.<br />
<br />
-dw.deedubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11141562636137023507noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3822863077944414226.post-17501465418929946122011-02-14T05:03:00.000-08:002011-02-14T05:03:00.394-08:00Perfect Brownies.....Who Can Resist?!!<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi13bgBXfxn5RTaVeu8qoYAeCAIBI4GcUgKeKP1_l5emvS8Hg2v816YVrXRVBkL30LjNMkpEXlIn7S2LFqDKBmQtIE6wfceG1XKrYDjx_Ye2lg7nwvgjSWe8zpiijcaxTuVtZ-5VIxh2BgJ/s1600/103_4012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi13bgBXfxn5RTaVeu8qoYAeCAIBI4GcUgKeKP1_l5emvS8Hg2v816YVrXRVBkL30LjNMkpEXlIn7S2LFqDKBmQtIE6wfceG1XKrYDjx_Ye2lg7nwvgjSWe8zpiijcaxTuVtZ-5VIxh2BgJ/s200/103_4012.JPG" width="150" /></a>When it comes to chocolate I have some serious weaknesses. One of my favorite chocolate indulgences are Brownies! Who doesn't love a perfectly baked, warm-from-the-oven, fudgy piece of heaven?!</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">After trying a brownie baked in my dear friend's new brownie pan - the kind that makes each brownie look as if it was baked individually - I was hooked! I have all too much experience with ragged-edged brownies that taste wonderful but look a bit scrappy by the time I get them cut and on to a serving plate. I need what this type of pan can offer...."individual" brownies that look as fabulous as they taste.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3BBqrYCpCx0K7cKQZWFV20pNDXHjQFQRj1ssQUFn9Fywz1fbssiv857DgDNAiVGO4lFA62cV9nMX48gm2LqyWssOyxX8pewAWjhOPZcyIbz3QfGHVBhvgGNeN_zUnU6w9vBMxV9fqMGCU/s1600/brownie+pan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3BBqrYCpCx0K7cKQZWFV20pNDXHjQFQRj1ssQUFn9Fywz1fbssiv857DgDNAiVGO4lFA62cV9nMX48gm2LqyWssOyxX8pewAWjhOPZcyIbz3QfGHVBhvgGNeN_zUnU6w9vBMxV9fqMGCU/s200/brownie+pan.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Well, as luck would have it, I was perusing Kohl's the other day (gift card burning in my wallet) when I spotted <em>The Perfect Brownie Pan</em> <em>Kit </em>nestled low on a clearance shelf. I wasn't sure this was the same pan as my friend had used, but the concept seemed to be the same. For only $9.99 I was willing to take a chance and try it out. </div><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Using a box mix (the only way to go in my opinion), I decided to put the pan to the test. It was so easy and the results were amazing! I LOVE having the brownies cut and ready to serve without the crumbly mess that used to be seemingly unavoidable. The nonstick pan didn't require a grease/flour prep like my glass pan and the clean up was effortless! </div><br />
I give this pan a giant thumps UP!<br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">If you want to find the clearance deal at Kohl's....act quickly! I noticed it was already removed from their website. There are other online sellers if you can't find it at your Kohl's; the best deal being found at <a href="http://perfectbrownietv.com/">perfectbrownietv.com</a> for the price of $19.95 for two pans (one for you, one for a gift) <u>plus</u> $8.95 shipping and handling. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">enjoy the chocolatey goodness of fresh-baked brownies!</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">-dw.</div>deedubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11141562636137023507noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3822863077944414226.post-44677449875162320702011-02-10T06:00:00.000-08:002011-02-10T09:53:48.320-08:00Getting away...without leaving home!Wishing for a romantic, calming spa getaway to celebrate Valentine's day this year? But, like most of us, the pains of the post-holiday budget won't allow the indulgence? <br />
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Well, think again.....It is soooo easy to create a spa mood without leaving home and spending a bundle. It just takes a little planning, some creativity, and some scheduled time!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyyEjhlP9CiJGOeEd89J_LNGTiapHUJB2BOP5Q6ylZD77UFBrn7D0Uf0vTnCFDQdSU1lwk5WLh7NS0-uPrspB7nLJdNyGws8dwG7GjvZmzZKQ6ukrQ-aQyoXkbS5cmrWkKGyL-svyK0aGz/s1600/100_2605.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyyEjhlP9CiJGOeEd89J_LNGTiapHUJB2BOP5Q6ylZD77UFBrn7D0Uf0vTnCFDQdSU1lwk5WLh7NS0-uPrspB7nLJdNyGws8dwG7GjvZmzZKQ6ukrQ-aQyoXkbS5cmrWkKGyL-svyK0aGz/s400/100_2605.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">First, identify what soothes and relaxes you. For me it's candles, soft music, some wine and a hot, bubble bath. Then decide which bathroom has the best bathtub and room to pull it off (for me it is my guest bath - perfectly decorated in tropical accents to further create a far-from-home feeling). </div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Next, grab the necessary items from around your house to pull the room together. I grabbed a small, bamboo picnic end tables from the garage, an extra stool, a glass ice bucket from the bar filled with ice, a bottle (okay two!) of our favorite wine, a decorative scallop shell, a wine opener, a bunch of white candles (in various sizes), a throw pillow, a bamboo silk plant, my portable iPod player and iPod, a few of my best fluffy, white towels (rolled), and an extra towel to tack over the skylight to buffer the natural light. </div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIjfNLKDYXM5NlgLWYQ6AqPF48rvrj96Hu9VhHVE34dEp85c0B0HSmaCNuWHNlt35VCSeMZLNrY5DES15nsgNiLvOG1WCD22-ePY5COTFFHUrMAiuy4FobHZrJ2ahVoJs_M1-nzcMAF7bO/s1600/100_2611.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIjfNLKDYXM5NlgLWYQ6AqPF48rvrj96Hu9VhHVE34dEp85c0B0HSmaCNuWHNlt35VCSeMZLNrY5DES15nsgNiLvOG1WCD22-ePY5COTFFHUrMAiuy4FobHZrJ2ahVoJs_M1-nzcMAF7bO/s200/100_2611.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">I went to town setting the stage to allow for easy access from the tub while striving to keep a clean, crisp look. Elegant simplicity can be the most romantic. I opened (then gently re-corked) the wine and placed it in the bucket to chill. I placed the scallop shell and a couple votive candles next to it to reflect light off of the ice bucket...all set on the bamboo end table next to the tub. On the stool, located at the other end of the tub, I placed the rolled towels and the silk plant with the pillow and couple more candles at it's base on the floor. I tacked the extra towel over the skylight so the candlelight would be the most dominate. I ensured I had a lengthy, slow music mix on my iPod playlist to keep from having to change the music out one the relaxing began. I pre-lit all the candles to ensure the lighting was enough and placement was just right, then blew them out until it was "go" time. When I knew it was almost time for the surprise to be revealed, I filled the tub with tons of bubbles and the hottest water possible (to ensure it wouldn't cool too much, too soon). </div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">To add to the tranquility of the evening, I pre-made dinner and left it in the crock pot to keep warm so after our spa experience dinner would be ready and waiting. It all went off without a hitch and we both reveled in the total relaxation we soaked up! </div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">enjoy creating your own spa oasis....for FREE....next time you long for a romantic getaway!</div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">-dw.</div></div>deedubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11141562636137023507noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3822863077944414226.post-64376020876588536472011-02-09T16:37:00.000-08:002011-02-09T16:40:24.863-08:00It's that time of year again....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbyFQOZJquvzpAzkbm17fIiHQlHZR62_5eIIl4__Xcyz7Fgku4WBkDdrCG4KhJdeGZp0bWnSBxNW1ev1l6IbDMRDGR2Nsvc64RK3aUhAbM_UiAfOuBHkq3iChw4gbktSt2iqhK5wK2uFqt/s1600/103_4000.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbyFQOZJquvzpAzkbm17fIiHQlHZR62_5eIIl4__Xcyz7Fgku4WBkDdrCG4KhJdeGZp0bWnSBxNW1ev1l6IbDMRDGR2Nsvc64RK3aUhAbM_UiAfOuBHkq3iChw4gbktSt2iqhK5wK2uFqt/s400/103_4000.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">You know...that one particular holiday that is <em>suppose</em> to be all about love and romance, but usually ends up being about over-priced roses and long waits for restaurant seating. </span><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I love Valentine's Day, I proudly admit that, but I do <em>not</em> love the over-hyped, over-priced pressures that have been put upon this day by the retail industry (candy, card, and jewelry sellers alike). </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Who would have thought that one little, non-federal holiday could create such high levels of stress and anxiety between couples everywhere?! But it does. </span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJy30jmuffpFwjMMoO9JqveszBASNPvqVbj9fefmF7iNAQecxZtqfPgX8EiSP_iFetqO_i-avAvBEYItKubQA6N2nJSeda5SqAF_8z5WgQKFNJVrE99mQJknHtoFrhEk-cZBgNc8Nq75Op/s1600/103_4009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJy30jmuffpFwjMMoO9JqveszBASNPvqVbj9fefmF7iNAQecxZtqfPgX8EiSP_iFetqO_i-avAvBEYItKubQA6N2nJSeda5SqAF_8z5WgQKFNJVrE99mQJknHtoFrhEk-cZBgNc8Nq75Op/s200/103_4009.JPG" width="150" /></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">Women start daydreaming that <em>this</em> is the year their favorite, romantic movie scene will play out. Her prince charming will sweep her off her feet and fulfill her every fantasy. Okay, ladies.....it's time to WAKE UP! Even the most-romantic men rarely (if ever) show up with a white, horse-drawn carriage to whisk you away to a private, candle-lit restaurant, while a pianist plays and you sip wine and dance the night away (unless you're suddenly cast in As the World Turns.)</span><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">It's time to quit setting ourselves up for disappointment and it's time to let the men in our lives breathe a little easier. It's time we take a bit of the pressure and expectations off of this holiday. </span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA-rMPPkbnOKa88BZeDPab9YTbqkJi5xs5YNNNKa8zUbhJNDZX-JqxJ5RalzfbTSytgVtSAO8DfEGX7I_hpnKxv_GZPyaJYCXV9lL5bOpGLHiGRWWacAzT0FGRBes60PVTjbJLlmiUDUgP/s1600/103_4005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA-rMPPkbnOKa88BZeDPab9YTbqkJi5xs5YNNNKa8zUbhJNDZX-JqxJ5RalzfbTSytgVtSAO8DfEGX7I_hpnKxv_GZPyaJYCXV9lL5bOpGLHiGRWWacAzT0FGRBes60PVTjbJLlmiUDUgP/s200/103_4005.JPG" width="126" /></a></div> <span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">After reading a Cosmo article featuring what men wanted us to know about Valentine's Day, I had an epiphany. The article quoted one man as saying he wanted his girlfriend to be honest about what she wanted from him this year. Previously she'd said she didn't need anything for V-Day, then when a co-worker received a larger bouquet of roses (36 to her 6), she got bent out of shape! </span><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">It got me thinking. Thinking about what I would say I wanted. But, what <em>did</em> I really want this year? I wasn'</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">t sure. I hadn't really thought about it until that moment. </span></div><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">Times are tougher for us this year and I don't want money spent simply out of obligation. I've had the "it" thing the jewelry store was promoting just because it's Valentine's Day. It isn't as special when women across America all get the identical necklace! Truly! What I <em>really </em>want is just a cozy, romantic evening. Something he puts his own thought and effort into. So, I headed home to tell him, straight-up, what I wanted this year.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">I told him about the article I had read and about my thoughts that followed. Then I added a little twist. I said, "I want creativity, effort and romance. So, to ensure all of that, I'm setting a $20 expense cap on the evening!" He about fell out of his chair! Certainly a budget like that wouldn't allow fancy restaurants or elaborate floral arrangements. My thoughts exactly! He agreed and we decided he would take Sunday the 13th for his creative endeavour and I'd take Monday the 14th. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">In the end we'll get two days of romance for a mere $40! </span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">It will take plenty of effort on both our parts to pull it off, but knowing we put aside the commercialism of the holiday to return to the true heart of the occasion will be <em>priceless</em>.</span><br />
<br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">I'll report back on how Operation 20 turns out! ;) </span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">enjoy your celebration of love, however you choose to spend it!</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">-dw.</span></div>deedubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11141562636137023507noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3822863077944414226.post-31980404997718706182011-01-31T16:15:00.000-08:002011-01-31T16:20:33.491-08:00Takin' a bit of southern goodness home with me...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTz-FJWh5CQspSoNnsoJf96LPAk1kcnNfhBtoT9d33VBd6GEGSkZtpt073Ojl8WFVygbX1H_l9eOJSK68aMc99NgxedDFAJyMPs8drkASvsbYv2RyHgV6ZqvOYCrztW-Vsl48oQJhHDHmA/s1600/cracker+b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTz-FJWh5CQspSoNnsoJf96LPAk1kcnNfhBtoT9d33VBd6GEGSkZtpt073Ojl8WFVygbX1H_l9eOJSK68aMc99NgxedDFAJyMPs8drkASvsbYv2RyHgV6ZqvOYCrztW-Vsl48oQJhHDHmA/s320/cracker+b.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>I LOVE Cracker Barrel restaurants! The problem is the "closest" one to me is in Boise, Idaho (which isn't at all close to where I live or travel to). Soooo, I decided to do a little digging and see if I could <em>re-create</em> some Cracker Barrel goodness after I return home from my southern vacation.<br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Jackpot! I found some copycat recipes at <a href="http://www.recipelion.com/?task=search&search_term=crackerbarrel">Recipe Lion</a>! </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjADqC8lyTRGkVUsQT4A7rK4SvQrnZK2pN7UPruqCLiKuCiGbrC5cLPmpWfZe537saQaUQeibSFGZv-x9hsX43lVMa9bE6ATlzUgBRDV2jkNjZEPblgFQ0zCc6J8fFM9gwnMobWUHfUYi_R/s1600/fried+apples.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjADqC8lyTRGkVUsQT4A7rK4SvQrnZK2pN7UPruqCLiKuCiGbrC5cLPmpWfZe537saQaUQeibSFGZv-x9hsX43lVMa9bE6ATlzUgBRDV2jkNjZEPblgFQ0zCc6J8fFM9gwnMobWUHfUYi_R/s200/fried+apples.jpg" width="153" /></a>While waiting in the gift store last weekend I spotted jars of their Fried Apples. They looked delish!!! I wanted to try them out at dessert time....but after eating dinner, I just didn't have room. I'm planning to indulge tomorrow night when I make my last (sniffle, sniffle) visit before heading back home. </div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">They sell them<a href="http://shop.crackerbarrel.com/online/shopping/Category.asp?cat_id=22&mscssid=C0GDKK8WRCED8GJHT2L17XU68EDS5KXA&viewall=true"> online</a> too, so <strike>if</strike> <em>when</em> I become addicted I can always have them delivered. Although shipping takes time...I may need to cook my own! If you want to start enjoying these asap as well, here is the copycat recipe compliments of Recipe Lion! Yea!</div><br />
<span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;"><strong>Cracker Barrel Old Country Store </strong></span><span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;"><strong>Fried Apples</strong></span><br />
Cooking Time: 20 min <br />
<br />
Ingredients<br />
<br />
6 large tart green Granny Smith apples<br />
1 teaspoon lemon juice<br />
1/4 cup bacon drippings<br />
1/4 cup brown sugar<br />
1 teaspoon salt<br />
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon<br />
dash of nutmeg<br />
<br />
Instructions<br />
<br />
1. In a large skillet, melt bacon drippings. <br />
*Bacon drippings adds a crisp flavor to this copycat fried apple recipe. <br />
2. Pour apples evenly into the skillet. Sprinkle with lemon juice, brown sugar and salt.<br />
3. Cover and cook over low heat for 15 minutes, until apples are tender and juicy.<br />
4. Sprinkle with cinnamon and nutmeg.<br />
<br />
enjoy re-creating what you love in your own kitchen!<br />
-dw.deedubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11141562636137023507noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3822863077944414226.post-81340384433097429172011-01-27T13:52:00.000-08:002011-01-27T19:55:16.023-08:00Elegant Simplicity<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8TAWxCZS2z4e0zwiMBf5tg7ZEwwfzYpSzND1emB-tFm5sgpm9fo_xZalsGvPaF14TY3-gQRYtX1t32YmhhwjbLEUY73xpaXQ4_ZYinnBECRnIzpFe1nQoQU9VsbxWIxsLknt-odX2-Nlq/s1600/vday+simplicity.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8TAWxCZS2z4e0zwiMBf5tg7ZEwwfzYpSzND1emB-tFm5sgpm9fo_xZalsGvPaF14TY3-gQRYtX1t32YmhhwjbLEUY73xpaXQ4_ZYinnBECRnIzpFe1nQoQU9VsbxWIxsLknt-odX2-Nlq/s320/vday+simplicity.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>When decorating your home for the holidays, sometimes the simplest look is the most elegant (and romantic). Sure, big, glittery hearts have their place this time of year, but sometimes a more subtle decor option has the biggest effect. <br />
This shelf vignette was posted by Jessica at <a href="http://craftily-ever-after.blogspot.com/2011/01/free-valentines-day-subway-art.html">Craftily Ever After</a> and I love it! She designed the subway art herself and framed it. With the addition of a couple candles, candleholders, and flower balls, the look is complete. <br />
Like most people, over the years I have acquired a <strong>ton</strong> of extra picture frames - in every size imaginable. Realizing nobody <em>really</em> needs that many frames, I was getting ready to donate a bunch to the Goodwill when I had an idea. I could keep just a few frames (for specific rooms/walls), and simply "swap out" the images each holiday making it seem as though I have a huge inventory of great seasonal artwork without having to take up priceless room in the garage! <br />
<br />
enjoy the romance and elegance of simplicity.<br />
-dw.deedubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11141562636137023507noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3822863077944414226.post-53210996536410593272011-01-25T04:00:00.000-08:002012-02-19T10:53:59.562-08:00Embellishments Squared - Organizing the little stuff<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1vqqFXy1608c-UjLHzRiD1IAVsu0D5wqWR3j_prFCJjogpO80dahRPxHOXNh7Da6oymu-6R5dgqKmSGvGt2o59BTbocj_5eyJ66ky8v4f5r0g68o2rJhVdX3oGDGkJNjlDW1KvVaYo7ap/s1600/103_3900.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="158" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1vqqFXy1608c-UjLHzRiD1IAVsu0D5wqWR3j_prFCJjogpO80dahRPxHOXNh7Da6oymu-6R5dgqKmSGvGt2o59BTbocj_5eyJ66ky8v4f5r0g68o2rJhVdX3oGDGkJNjlDW1KvVaYo7ap/s320/103_3900.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Every crafter is challenged with finding the best way to store their teeny-tiny embellishments or findings. There are soooooo many options out there (and believe me I have tried most of them), but this is by far my favorite. </div></div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheLPRyu5q7Q5I6EqEQyug4zyveD8xJJ_Ax5JOoYShSqMTNFfSnlUhUF29gLI54jz7q_Sm6o1isf41ydZlJeP7jzqMAtdkvwqu-qR3aL7SOTzpYNIZ8ah2yO3pRSeQND_Q7e3vHGK5cJWp8/s1600/103_3902.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheLPRyu5q7Q5I6EqEQyug4zyveD8xJJ_Ax5JOoYShSqMTNFfSnlUhUF29gLI54jz7q_Sm6o1isf41ydZlJeP7jzqMAtdkvwqu-qR3aL7SOTzpYNIZ8ah2yO3pRSeQND_Q7e3vHGK5cJWp8/s200/103_3902.JPG" width="117" /></a>I came across the idea rather by accident.... I was in a Tuesday Morning store when I spotted Crop in Style plastic containers at a price I couldn't pass up (the same price I paid as a retailer when I owned my store). My mom was going to be re-doing her stamp room and I thought they might came in handy so I bought all that the packages they had on the shelf. I gave some to my mom and stashed one box away for a future organization article and never really thought about them again. That is until I moved and was re-doing my own studio. </div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"> <br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNGHZZnCBmS_c7SMJ4P0I2XoCRYMMcHQwtHr0royy5aLIowUVXlIwpuDORq5asgUSeRzuXdVa_sSqgl8mFDGyDvJTaVofqmLdH6nuUCRF0p0VpwQSxbOoEYKXicC0CuSrhnquThKwT3xCw/s1600/jars.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNGHZZnCBmS_c7SMJ4P0I2XoCRYMMcHQwtHr0royy5aLIowUVXlIwpuDORq5asgUSeRzuXdVa_sSqgl8mFDGyDvJTaVofqmLdH6nuUCRF0p0VpwQSxbOoEYKXicC0CuSrhnquThKwT3xCw/s1600/jars.bmp" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">IKEA jars</td></tr>
</tbody></table> <br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">I no longer had the cupboard with slide-out drawers that previously housed the majority of my <a href="http://www.ikea.com/">IKEA</a> jars and I was struggling to find somewhere to put them in the new, much smaller room. I wanted them all in one spot this time (a few had lined the edge of my desktop before), yet still within arms reach. I tried my desk drawers but, unfortunately, the IKEA jars didn't fit into the lower-profile drawers. Suddenly, I remembered having those plastic containers and a light bulb went off! They were more compact, and they were square so they would lie down without rolling around and I would be see the contents easily when they were on their sides! I opened the brand new box, tried them out for size and they fit perfectly! Jackpot!</div> <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGAFSdtP56NaJkNR1Uhbn7K_xWNzL2g3o6La7En21lHXp7WAvdRw9bk3_OsDfV0_TfZyWlOG4sdMd8k9GGNoBLhqElldLHcDO8nSqZIaQ5n9csM7w5GctYLYvkpeDuNLR-jR2bKMXhQ7rl/s1600/103_3878.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="184" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGAFSdtP56NaJkNR1Uhbn7K_xWNzL2g3o6La7En21lHXp7WAvdRw9bk3_OsDfV0_TfZyWlOG4sdMd8k9GGNoBLhqElldLHcDO8nSqZIaQ5n9csM7w5GctYLYvkpeDuNLR-jR2bKMXhQ7rl/s320/103_3878.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Available at Michael's $9.99 a pack</td></tr>
</tbody></table> <br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">As I began switching the contents from the old to the new containers I realized I didn't have near enough of them. I hoped I would be able to find more at my local Michael's store. When I got to the store, coupon in hand, I discovered a slight difference. They were no longer manufactured by Crop in Style, but rather Michael's themselves (price $9.99). They were exactly the same size so I grabbed one and vowed to buy one more each visit (so I could keep using the 40% off coupons) until my drawer was completely full. Happily, on my third visit I was able to buy the remaining packs for 50% off during their storage supply sale! Mission complete.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div> <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfe7vgxqionkfWSeUo5s1HzfAqv8tkvHO1tAdTAjKUhFspyu19obiULWkYPE5CfJnshyWHygrQ98Cwg6SGY6TMHxQXxQ67F7hryALzzJM0BGraKH2DxtxnNQ2NVGcuIlH19vcV3SuvvgVx/s1600/103_3882.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="277" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfe7vgxqionkfWSeUo5s1HzfAqv8tkvHO1tAdTAjKUhFspyu19obiULWkYPE5CfJnshyWHygrQ98Cwg6SGY6TMHxQXxQ67F7hryALzzJM0BGraKH2DxtxnNQ2NVGcuIlH19vcV3SuvvgVx/s400/103_3882.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><><><><> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr2wcKdYFzhNlHMGQQUI8Cyi8A97SGnTKOjhGTJji0R0s9AwloJmKUXJ7GJVI8dgHWgtRZ7LNg_K7OufRP18jfHQF5b9ZvkaSzXcvfitOIDLWaoe4WrTF5kBOqw0FsnGJ5-tsofs0VTURd/s1600/103_3886.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr2wcKdYFzhNlHMGQQUI8Cyi8A97SGnTKOjhGTJji0R0s9AwloJmKUXJ7GJVI8dgHWgtRZ7LNg_K7OufRP18jfHQF5b9ZvkaSzXcvfitOIDLWaoe4WrTF5kBOqw0FsnGJ5-tsofs0VTURd/s200/103_3886.JPG" width="160" /></a> </></div></></></></><td class="tr-caption" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: center;">Problem solved! 27 containers in all.<br />
<a href="http://pinterest.com/deannawentz/"><img alt="Follow Me on Pinterest" height="16" src="http://passets-cdn.pinterest.com/images/small-p-button.png" width="16" /></a></td><><><><> <div></div></></></></></tr>
</tbody></table>You may have noticed that all the embellishments I've stored in this system are primarily metallic. That is because I use floss boxes to store my colored embellishments by individual color. Check that out <a href="http://dw-shain.blogspot.com/2007/03/whats-old-is-new.html">here</a>. <br />
<br />
enjoy the changes in life that that turn out to be so much better than the original!<br />
-dw.<br />
</div></div>deedubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11141562636137023507noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3822863077944414226.post-79642727682258874202011-01-24T21:00:00.000-08:002011-01-25T06:54:28.453-08:00Firecracker Seafood Marinade<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">We tried another new recipe from my collection....this time a marinade for salmon fillets. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I prefer my salmon simply barbequed with lemon, onion, garlic and mayo, but this was a nice variance from the everyday usual. While the recipe says to marinate for 4 hours (which I did for the salmon) I decided to add a pop of flavor to my jumbo prawns as well by giving them a "quick" coating before I sauteed them and they were delicious too.</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHYRiJNBhxo6o2E4GTtSsIL6iuzLYm69Gh0WeVXTcty5aFS_ujvNnLgOtGCwndn3QjbCwae7G-HgfU7s8GLWldC4jJcMgPmkzMEm3vs3Dta1VNgPqlYz62x6eyHFB8VAdNHzdaVXnOIEBM/s1600/101_3526.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="193" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHYRiJNBhxo6o2E4GTtSsIL6iuzLYm69Gh0WeVXTcty5aFS_ujvNnLgOtGCwndn3QjbCwae7G-HgfU7s8GLWldC4jJcMgPmkzMEm3vs3Dta1VNgPqlYz62x6eyHFB8VAdNHzdaVXnOIEBM/s320/101_3526.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Firecracker Salmon Marinade:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">4 ounces salmon fillets</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">1/2 cup peanut oil</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">4 Tbsp soy sauce</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">4 Tbsp balsamic vinegar</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">1 1/2 tsp ground ginger</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">3 tsp brown sugar</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">1 tsp sesame seed oil</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">1/2 tsp salt</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">4 Tbsp green onions (substituted 1 Tbsp dried onion flakes)</span> <br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">2 cloves garlic, minced (substituted 2 tsp fresh chopped garlic)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">2 tsp crushed red pepper (we used 3 tsp - we like extra heat)</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Add all ingredients together in flat baking dish, add fish, and marinate for at least 4 hours.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">Our score: 8</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">enjoying new approaches to family favorites.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">-dw.</span>deedubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11141562636137023507noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3822863077944414226.post-40891559926872870452011-01-21T04:00:00.000-08:002011-01-21T06:17:17.267-08:00It's time to get serious!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8M7w4NpXDlqNSYXfxS0Kr2ItpKIUlNTuLXyGKl5ChxTjs6Gn1b7v_Gh-Z0cgE7R14dpnu7eaUWme2NtC61OITTlUr7iXqJB_veVgDgHZeZLuPZbCorKXPAKGQ3NAd4-r_6jsleU1aTT_u/s1600/diet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8M7w4NpXDlqNSYXfxS0Kr2ItpKIUlNTuLXyGKl5ChxTjs6Gn1b7v_Gh-Z0cgE7R14dpnu7eaUWme2NtC61OITTlUr7iXqJB_veVgDgHZeZLuPZbCorKXPAKGQ3NAd4-r_6jsleU1aTT_u/s320/diet.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Like sooooo many others, I have battled with my weight on and off for years. I was down to a weight I was very happy with just a year and a half ago.....then *POOF* it all came back! Yikes! So this year along with the ten other Life Goals I have put on my list, I have set a very specific weight loss goal for 2011. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I need to lose weight for many reasons. First, and most importantly, for my health. Second, for my own happiness and third, because, darn it, I have some fabulous clothes that I <em>really</em> want to be able to wear again!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;">To help reach my goal, I've decided to (unofficially) go back on the Weight Watchers Points program. I've lost 25 lbs through the program in the past and know it well enough that it takes a lot of the </span><span style="font-family: Arial;">"work" out of dieting for me. Not too mention that there are products readily available that include WW Points on the packaging and restaurants that include WW Points on their menus. For those that don't, you can find tons of calculation websites that will give you all the Point breakdowns for many of your favorite restaurants. Even Starbucks. But be warned.....it was a rather sad day in my life when I discovered that my most favorite hot cocoa in the <em>entire</em> world was 8 points!!!! I'm going to have to have the baristas help me find some ways to shave off some of calories/points as I cannot bear the thought of giving up this special treat for the rest of my life! Eliminating the whipped cream removes 2 points, but I've got to make it lower than that. I'll let you know when we get it mastered!</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNOPrmX5X8_M-njTXRSwuSIRXg1W4M-f-ko8Y0hrG3SBcExkmX2eMPUG0MWV8BcNtNtEnehV1Nzyj5CYuyRRY4JEIqby6nt0k2qrH2CLFFgYDeOtITsAmjOAO-hqlmYjJEkVEv4wrYxodE/s1600/applebees.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNOPrmX5X8_M-njTXRSwuSIRXg1W4M-f-ko8Y0hrG3SBcExkmX2eMPUG0MWV8BcNtNtEnehV1Nzyj5CYuyRRY4JEIqby6nt0k2qrH2CLFFgYDeOtITsAmjOAO-hqlmYjJEkVEv4wrYxodE/s400/applebees.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><span style="font-family: Arial;">One restaurant whose menu is very WW friendly is Applebee's. They just added brand new menu options great for the WW dieting plan! Of course, they also have great regular items on the menu that work well too. Remember to think A la Carte! You can order a side of rice and a side of skewered prawns that is both filling and low in points! </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;">enjoy what you eat while losing weight!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;">-dw.</span>deedubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11141562636137023507noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3822863077944414226.post-52741936357103050622011-01-20T17:57:00.000-08:002011-01-20T17:57:53.363-08:00How to WOW-Up your wallsFor the first time in my life I live in a rental home. And while most of the time it doesn't feel any differently than owning a home, there <em>are</em> some moments. With every nail hole I pound in the wall, I dread the day I have to putty them before we leave. And when the urge to add color to my walls strikes me, I realize they aren't <em>really</em> my walls.<br />
Well, today I learned about a way to transform your walls in a completely safe and temporary way...by using liquid starch and fabric! It adheres beautifully and stays put until you're ready to remove it, then it peels away without any damage to the wall what-so-ever! Amazing! <br />
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I first heard about the idea while watching <a href="http://www.thenateshow.com/videos/detail/807/wall-design-without-paint/">The Nate Berkus Show</a>. Click <a href="http://www.thenateshow.com/">here</a> to watch the segment.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQq04goOm4IfFQUWZMo2m8-mPxWqEPbdRQw-N4UAhSkBTlo04wORbh7a0nP76uhXCHiYGdcn042lcA-7aDKUzDwiLWSBRzDR1W-GbvZYiCKyXpvfQBulJB9WwVCI3NqABn5Ct8iAFwnrKD/s1600/nate.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQq04goOm4IfFQUWZMo2m8-mPxWqEPbdRQw-N4UAhSkBTlo04wORbh7a0nP76uhXCHiYGdcn042lcA-7aDKUzDwiLWSBRzDR1W-GbvZYiCKyXpvfQBulJB9WwVCI3NqABn5Ct8iAFwnrKD/s400/nate.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Matt and Shari have a great tutorial (and endurance testimonial) on their <a href="http://www.mattandshari.com/decorating-ideas/starching-fabric-to-walls-new.html">website</a> too.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJOulh83-WNIXFZijO9w3VFV8aG5mh9BwoE0-11fnB8QX64UtQG1vcdP9ymjVzf3TGOEp3KmCcIjGPrzvMQ_8wjOAvB77-twfAssc5fJaoZpsSIMSQEoJmPN6e3-CHBt5rRuOdG-unAOEQ/s1600/fabric+wall.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJOulh83-WNIXFZijO9w3VFV8aG5mh9BwoE0-11fnB8QX64UtQG1vcdP9ymjVzf3TGOEp3KmCcIjGPrzvMQ_8wjOAvB77-twfAssc5fJaoZpsSIMSQEoJmPN6e3-CHBt5rRuOdG-unAOEQ/s1600/fabric+wall.bmp" /></a></div>I can hardly wait to try this and I'm thinking there may be more than just walls to try this technique out on. Stay tuned!<br />
<br />
enjoy recreating the look of your walls, permanently or temporarily.<br />
-dwdeedubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11141562636137023507noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3822863077944414226.post-27962686909386366132011-01-19T11:08:00.000-08:002011-01-19T11:08:37.407-08:00Scrapbook Product News<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Tim Holtz's Ideaology line, along with 7gypsies, is for me what I covet most in the scrapbook embellishment world. I love the retro, urban chic look that somehow combines romantic nostalgia, wordly travel, and simplicity all at once. My mind races with ideas and projects every year when he unveils his new line. This year is no different. Here is a sneak peak and a <a href="http://timholtz.typepad.com/my_weblog/">link</a> to his website where you can see even more from the new line. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO7qeSufNX7SCGchbS74HV0P7A9WrAsk-rqbmbNfD53EJ0qABGGCAUYz97rygx-hdS611W5hxJuisBR8NRMxIoW3v10P8nvH2JgI4sDglWNThDI3KWkvTKBcS4Mi9VHYbsK_TibIMQWbfm/s1600/tim2.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO7qeSufNX7SCGchbS74HV0P7A9WrAsk-rqbmbNfD53EJ0qABGGCAUYz97rygx-hdS611W5hxJuisBR8NRMxIoW3v10P8nvH2JgI4sDglWNThDI3KWkvTKBcS4Mi9VHYbsK_TibIMQWbfm/s200/tim2.bmp" width="200" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHkBSFcr1d9aa9xMYtud4xmXsKMmkLBT4XzktK7EiMx8wlSrKHKwJ1OZbVzU_vzGYwCmCjNPchowLzHMSc5Gd1uVPx2C6ba_vlc8wlLCdocBPL_egHSyMUziPxWFAf7RVsYikimxugvWUJ/s1600/tim5.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHkBSFcr1d9aa9xMYtud4xmXsKMmkLBT4XzktK7EiMx8wlSrKHKwJ1OZbVzU_vzGYwCmCjNPchowLzHMSc5Gd1uVPx2C6ba_vlc8wlLCdocBPL_egHSyMUziPxWFAf7RVsYikimxugvWUJ/s200/tim5.bmp" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilA9fiRc2LIipfj85Z_jYLkG4XSPKE3vSzRwuD6TE00uJ2pb7HEvv4Dd_Te_GME4KZ0tI6S-146gD61kl9hGuK4OFWu-leIVBP3AmOzSk54nucr3HNKr8b-lZUGe7qzRoSocLquSRSGEXG/s1600/tim4.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilA9fiRc2LIipfj85Z_jYLkG4XSPKE3vSzRwuD6TE00uJ2pb7HEvv4Dd_Te_GME4KZ0tI6S-146gD61kl9hGuK4OFWu-leIVBP3AmOzSk54nucr3HNKr8b-lZUGe7qzRoSocLquSRSGEXG/s200/tim4.bmp" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhArbpUw_Vebce2fu141cVcbNa7aVWGJzrmhCV5WflZXX6q6At4DeaHJb1UTrP4SwlCm5ftq6KXUbg5V0KcnjtPFF2SXrWucMzwu6cNn9CcRAWKC5_BL0xkY19s4_IBiFWVE1oTznjtXArw/s1600/tim1.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhArbpUw_Vebce2fu141cVcbNa7aVWGJzrmhCV5WflZXX6q6At4DeaHJb1UTrP4SwlCm5ftq6KXUbg5V0KcnjtPFF2SXrWucMzwu6cNn9CcRAWKC5_BL0xkY19s4_IBiFWVE1oTznjtXArw/s200/tim1.bmp" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1pOz8O2Chk-PojOSMZYuDrGwJHo-9DiM9amx9tagn39me1OKcy9guGwsKEpJaBZZh9UWnZz74jO5OUu6Yq47C9gE-TjVGjanuf-HiGUQyS7sfyaDXk4B4ekUtI6DWOyPhyphenhyphen99LD0L3e4XL/s1600/tim7.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1pOz8O2Chk-PojOSMZYuDrGwJHo-9DiM9amx9tagn39me1OKcy9guGwsKEpJaBZZh9UWnZz74jO5OUu6Yq47C9gE-TjVGjanuf-HiGUQyS7sfyaDXk4B4ekUtI6DWOyPhyphenhyphen99LD0L3e4XL/s200/tim7.bmp" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs3KpAbsQP2HCFuR7Put9K4YOSd-f2JUCW5hDvVJoOfmhd-G0I2Fg555223SR5fucUNGaDYWsh4Wcq1TlZ42da7KVkPUQKy1otbmADBBN-_t2zWu23xVDf7VxGjdR0GopV9aXPC-YzpL6n/s1600/tim3.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs3KpAbsQP2HCFuR7Put9K4YOSd-f2JUCW5hDvVJoOfmhd-G0I2Fg555223SR5fucUNGaDYWsh4Wcq1TlZ42da7KVkPUQKy1otbmADBBN-_t2zWu23xVDf7VxGjdR0GopV9aXPC-YzpL6n/s200/tim3.bmp" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">enjoy all the new inspiration heading our way! </div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">-dw.</div>deedubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11141562636137023507noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3822863077944414226.post-85714718613125771812011-01-19T05:22:00.000-08:002011-01-19T05:22:10.804-08:00A Fresh Start for the New Year!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Happy Twenty-<strong>Eleven</strong>! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV-EkJhem-IStb16U2jZ-F1gopuF6jJfdZjPDW6afnZQq8XKb1Q9vKxgwA3Ix1dVgC6B_W_tBYQrG_peQASz-LCpZRnth8QHauX0woTXMvQAsLvOFNNIe0KLh3x2i0aEut3pBKSRAieTTA/s1600/102_4287.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV-EkJhem-IStb16U2jZ-F1gopuF6jJfdZjPDW6afnZQq8XKb1Q9vKxgwA3Ix1dVgC6B_W_tBYQrG_peQASz-LCpZRnth8QHauX0woTXMvQAsLvOFNNIe0KLh3x2i0aEut3pBKSRAieTTA/s320/102_4287.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">I want this new year to be a total success. I want this new year to be fabulous! So, to help make it happen, I decided to set some life goals......eleven of them to be precise. I'm not calling them New Year's resolutions because, well frankly, I never seem to take that term seriously enough. The list contains things that will improve my overall life and bring me greater joy, so I'm calling them Life Goals. It's like a one-year bucket list! While some will be easier to achieve than others, I am hoping a strong commitment and lots of determination will have me crossing each one off the list throughout the coming year. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">I won't share the entire list right now, but I will share the one that has to do with blogging. One of the goals on the list is to reformulate the way I've been (or not been) blogging these past few years. I've sporadically shared all sorts of topics from the very personal moments in my life to new recipes, organizing, decorating and even sale announcements. But I feel like it's become to disjointed. So, while I do not have the technology-side of things worked out just yet (although I know it's possible), I have the details of what I want to accomplish all ironed out. Instead of writing in five or six different blogs (to cover all the things I want to talk about and share), I will dedicate one specific day of the week to each topic. In the end, I will have "category" buttons across the top of my page for quick access to the topic(s) readers care to follow along with.</div><br />
The daily topics will be:<br />
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<strong>On the Menu - Monday</strong> (recipes, menu planning, and food and restaurant specials)<br />
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<strong>Oh, 2B Organized - Tuesday</strong> (craft room and home organization tips, examples, and storage solutions)<br />
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<strong>World of My Own - Wednesday</strong> (the personal side of life, MS, my goals, projects, and daily doings)<br />
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<strong>Thrifty Decor & More - Thursday</strong> (home decor ideas, re-purposing, thrifty finds, and what's hot)<br />
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<strong>Time to Get Fit - Friday</strong> (exercise, weight loss, diet and nutrition)<br />
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Writing five times a week will be a challenge for me, but it is officially on the goal list and I want to make it happen. I can't promise to be perfect and never miss a day, but I am renewed in my desire to write and share more in 2012. Okay, there's no turning back now....it's out there...in black and white...for everyone to see! Wish me luck! ;)<br />
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enjoy setting goals that make you push yourself!<br />
-dw.deedubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11141562636137023507noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3822863077944414226.post-21429126946910968252010-12-02T10:44:00.000-08:002010-12-02T10:48:51.058-08:00It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas....<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1J_Y3iDXvC3fsf4eL72oaElGRZ8lEZm6e8vq0-gAMJ7M4DQ2wvn0ZMxPeAzPKG0urKOF7AKtnaMUJpnfamoq01Gt5KRxFVNqtGsaJo9zuUGsuFGCropcVBaw68XjeK5ZI8Ac3UckX-La1/s1600/103_3750.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></div>It's so easy to transform your everyday decor into festive, holiday-scaped decor. And you <em>can</em> do it without breaking the bank! <br />
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</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKc-aSMGtoIMmp5E5x6wBEvXy6LD4_vavWIAHX3t5GEPU77gOfKDlEdnNvJpi2Ml6fOa4_hcbLq3KeCGK8jcjGrpHNaInHGM92cDVskqn58Ng3uijLczARMo1xuq_aR3dPFprcPEpUjT0G/s1600/103_3752.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" ox="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKc-aSMGtoIMmp5E5x6wBEvXy6LD4_vavWIAHX3t5GEPU77gOfKDlEdnNvJpi2Ml6fOa4_hcbLq3KeCGK8jcjGrpHNaInHGM92cDVskqn58Ng3uijLczARMo1xuq_aR3dPFprcPEpUjT0G/s200/103_3752.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">* Slip holiday wrapping or scrapbook paper behind framed photos to create a quick, holiday-themed mat.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"></div><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">* Swap out everyday framed photos for pictures taken on previous holidays (with Santa, in front of last year's tree, etc.).</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"></div><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcODQhJ46s2cCtigEwBNi6vtu3CU1cjwQlarRll8jnY9t8rT4a4dwM8i22l311bAZDQcNTHK8801w4ofOwft5ibU3_8ZFW34rV1EWYczlQFjeUmX307VtCjxEnCDaYxzrQPzsI_0yb3cz2/s1600/103_3755.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; height: 190px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; width: 151px;"><img border="0" height="200" ox="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcODQhJ46s2cCtigEwBNi6vtu3CU1cjwQlarRll8jnY9t8rT4a4dwM8i22l311bAZDQcNTHK8801w4ofOwft5ibU3_8ZFW34rV1EWYczlQFjeUmX307VtCjxEnCDaYxzrQPzsI_0yb3cz2/s200/103_3755.JPG" width="150" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">* Fill a basket with pinecones, fallen pine boughs, holly, etc. and for extra sparkle add a string of little white lights.</div><br />
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia9UZSX4ee3iME09DMqZbhzxK47Uo4bVrZPlTREUTNXeGISYItFZnrUO0gqIulsv4nJaiKfJO9R-6J31RKGpxzNpfLwIX-FprB9rtxiChUYkZFOBN3ChwZzHgYgkD5jQ_2opNFHoeh1n8p/s1600/103_3726.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" ox="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia9UZSX4ee3iME09DMqZbhzxK47Uo4bVrZPlTREUTNXeGISYItFZnrUO0gqIulsv4nJaiKfJO9R-6J31RKGpxzNpfLwIX-FprB9rtxiChUYkZFOBN3ChwZzHgYgkD5jQ_2opNFHoeh1n8p/s200/103_3726.JPG" width="150" /></a>* Take down current wall art and replace with framed holiday prints (or old holiday cards, magazine photos, etc.) or wrap entire frame with holiday paper and ribbon to create a large package.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">* Replace what's displayed on your plate holder with incoming holiday cards.</div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">* Replace curtain tie backs with holiday ribbon.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtm4KO4zX9kW2J3TUPXe_QDJJea4x7hOSM3n8_wxvic4ey-5tQRuYvAORKMB9_EMkLOUCnLct82s6EW5lG9MSxqiSTytI7vgaXAuWwLU8PJIrcc8pS67E_QVVjgossV_FMELfkFe8mvyA-/s1600/103_3762.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" ox="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtm4KO4zX9kW2J3TUPXe_QDJJea4x7hOSM3n8_wxvic4ey-5tQRuYvAORKMB9_EMkLOUCnLct82s6EW5lG9MSxqiSTytI7vgaXAuWwLU8PJIrcc8pS67E_QVVjgossV_FMELfkFe8mvyA-/s200/103_3762.JPG" width="150" /></a></div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
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</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-zuouiePPmfGA1VgbErzGpO7U-D5RCrMUb2XpQBpsxvGKS8ENohG2xt5Kpnpynxn_k-BCvmrQbCMbxjeiq0BCKIG44330ktIyTsGe1h1YnsgSTrlzvMy4mhXp6v5qSdUcGTy6SmQyNsTJ/s1600/103_3739.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" ox="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-zuouiePPmfGA1VgbErzGpO7U-D5RCrMUb2XpQBpsxvGKS8ENohG2xt5Kpnpynxn_k-BCvmrQbCMbxjeiq0BCKIG44330ktIyTsGe1h1YnsgSTrlzvMy4mhXp6v5qSdUcGTy6SmQyNsTJ/s200/103_3739.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">enjoy the quick, easy ways you can add the holidays into your decor!</div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">-dw.</div></div>deedubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11141562636137023507noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3822863077944414226.post-27490112219867955842010-12-01T06:30:00.000-08:002010-12-01T08:29:19.177-08:00Never a Christrmas Morning...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd4SYiVcKdh6t68759Sqg5EUWbS_9S0q3QC6l8S60dHFk6NrMQxfzPa-RRxPXpcREYJtkeUMIwcr3BuUUiQqriDXV53bYQpdYgEindKGB5JsbHBlQCIIO-ODviVGt-3eVCUJX7JQFV-aAC/s1600/103_3686.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" ox="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd4SYiVcKdh6t68759Sqg5EUWbS_9S0q3QC6l8S60dHFk6NrMQxfzPa-RRxPXpcREYJtkeUMIwcr3BuUUiQqriDXV53bYQpdYgEindKGB5JsbHBlQCIIO-ODviVGt-3eVCUJX7JQFV-aAC/s320/103_3686.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I love family traditions. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I love that my family has eaten the same traditional breakfast dish every Christmas morning for my entire life. Every morning for <em>generations,</em> in fact. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">The task of creating this delicious dish being passed down like a torch of honor, each generation learning from the one before. I</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">t is impossible to spend time preparing it without reflecting on the times my great-grammy served it up for the entire family when I was a very little girl. </span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;"></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">This meal is never taken for granted (as we do not cook it many other times of the year), it is highly craved and savored. It is, for me, the ultimate comfort food and as much a part of the holiday as Santa Claus, stockings, and Christmas trees. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">It conjures up memories of childhood Christmases; my family gathered around the tree opening stockings, the smell wafting from the oven making our mouths water in anticipation. And each year as I prepare this dish, it my special moment of reflection; I can so clearly see images of my great-grammy working in her kitchen, her white hair perfectly styled, while wearing her cute, little holiday apron. In that moment I can feel her looking down from the heavens and smiling, so proud of us for carrying on this family tradition that holds so many wonderful memories for each of us. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">In a world of uncertainty, I look forward to the few things we can count on staying the same year after year. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">What is your most favored family tradition?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">enjoy the memories traditions evoke in you.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">-dw</span>deedubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11141562636137023507noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3822863077944414226.post-49503061405262589202010-11-10T12:30:00.000-08:002010-11-10T12:33:09.284-08:00A Penny Saved....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqTjThyyPS5zkJjr_YndX-k8ZWidm9sSKwJ8gDVBQnVYbpqKfxrnTwTzemaeObsm5TM3pbjwJsasr8TFbp5e5cTJpiB3OTeBA_TAury3zMmTDP7r04f7kDU_2oEl4nq0GcrKjZN4GFYuDQ/s1600/U+Village+bags.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="275" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqTjThyyPS5zkJjr_YndX-k8ZWidm9sSKwJ8gDVBQnVYbpqKfxrnTwTzemaeObsm5TM3pbjwJsasr8TFbp5e5cTJpiB3OTeBA_TAury3zMmTDP7r04f7kDU_2oEl4nq0GcrKjZN4GFYuDQ/s320/U+Village+bags.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: large;">The average woman spends 8 years shopping during her lifetime.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Most people when asked would say they prefer to save money while shopping, but admittedly most don't take the time to save as much as they could. For me, and countless others, discount shopping is like a sport. There are skills you need to have in order to be considered an MVP level player. In this game there are definite winners and, unfortunately, some paid-to-much losers.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Here are some tips to help make you a discount shopping MVP (Money Valuing Purchaser) this holiday season.....</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">1. Start gift shopping early.</span> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Pay attention throughout the year to things people like and wish for, then when you you see that item go on sale, or receive a fabulous store coupon, you can get in there and scoop it up even if the event is weeks or months away. By allowing yourself a longer time span to shop, you increase your odds of finding the deep discounts that a small window of time seldom provides. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">2. Seek out and USE retailer coupons.</span> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Grocery stores aren't the only place accepting coupons these days, many retailers are using coupons to entice us into department stores as well. For example, the *much-loved* $10 off a $10 purchase coupon that I seem to get from JC Penney at least once a year. Anyone that can do basic math knows that equals FREE stuff! Retailers issue these coupons to get us into the shopping centers (usually during slower shopping seasons). They're betting if we come in to use the coupon (and you wouldn't believe how many people don't) we will spend much more than the small, token $10 promotional amount and they will be win. With me, however, it is a bet they usually lose. Because I begin my gift shopping <strong>early </strong>I am able to apply the "free money" toward a $10-12 gift item I've been watching for. I love crossing off an item on my list and placing a $2 or $3 paid amount next to it. I get the joy of giving more without spoiling my holiday budget! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">If you have not been receiving these types of promotions, start paying attention when shopping in the stores you frequent, odds are they have a little sign by the register that tells you how to sign up for coupon mailings or texts. I prefer the text option (it's important to have unlimited texting on your phone plan) because I am rarely ever in a store without my phone, therefore, I always have the coupon with me (and the sign by the register serves as a great reminder to use it! )</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">3. Take advantage of online and socia media promotions.</span> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">It seems more and more everything we need is simply a "click" away on the internet...including coupons and savings opportunities! Social Media sources like Facebook have become amazing sales drivers. Manufacturers reach customers directly with their business "pages." By going to a company's page and clicking the "Like" button you are accepting future sales announcements and coupons streaming into your status updates page. Today, for example, if you go to Fisher Price Toys' page and hit "Like" you will see a link to save 20% off an entire online order with them. Other retailers offer printable coupons for in-store purchases as well as from their websites. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Not a fan of social media? Don't have an account? You don't have to miss out. Retailers (and sometimes even shopping malls as well) are happy to send the same information to you via your e-mail account. Simply sign up for e-mail promotions in their store or on their website and you will begin receiving coupons right away, usually beginning with a large, incentive discount as a "thank you" for signing up. Don't skip filling in your birthday when prompted, often little "gift savings" are sent when your big day rolls around! My favorite part about receiving email coupons is that they wait in your inbox until you need them (no clutter to control). Simply enter the company name in your account's search bar when you're ready and the email they sent will pop up.....no scrolling and scrolling trying to recall what day it was sent. Just print and go! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Another great resource on the computer is being able to get sale notifications in advance. By signing up at sites like </span><a href="http://blackfridayads.com/"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">BlackFridayAds.com</span></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> you will be sent periodic updates on what will be on sale the day after Thanksgiving. By getting this valuable information ahead of time you can have your Day-After shopping strategies all mapped out long before the turkey is ever thawed....let alone eaten! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS; font-size: large;">4. Don't be afraid of discount retailers and thrift stores. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">Before heading to the mall, I always try and hit my favorite discount retailers first. Stores like TJ Maxx, Marshalls, Ross and Tuesday Morning all offer great, name brand labels at a heavily discounted price. Gone are the days of these stores offering only out-of-date, damaged, or factory seconds merchandise, more often it is simply a case of overstock or larger volume purchasing. For example, I recently purchased a Nike baseball hat for only $8 at TJ Maxx when the cheapest comparable hat found in or around the mall was $20! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">At the mere mention of thrift store gift shopping many begin to shutter. But did you know that Goodwill receives donations from Target stores? Brand new, in-the-box items that that didn't manage to get sold on the clearance rack. (<u>Note:</u> these items are not returnable at Target stores. Barcodes are black marked to prevent such fraud.) Thrift shopping is not the same today as it was in years past; stores are cleaner, items are more organized, and more and more retailers are donating new, unused items that they don't have space to clearance out themselves.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS; font-size: large;">5. Watch for Bounce Back Promotions. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">Many retailers offer Store Bucks or gift cards when you purchase a certain dollar amount or specific items. Plan in advance to only buy the minimum amount necessary the first trip and returning another day to get the balance of your items using the promotional dollars. Last year I saved a ton shopping for my two daughters on separate days...one's outfit was purchased on the gift card promotion day and the other's on a return visit using the bonus gift card I had earned. Taking advantage of store sales also in place, I saved a bundle overall! Stores offer these savings counting on the fact that shoppers, just wanting to get finished, will buy everything that first day. Pay close attention to the promotion's small print - some gift cards are not redeemable until after January 1...these are not as great of a deal, unless you get cash in your stocking on Christmas morning!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">Other types of bounce back promotions are printed on your initial sales receipt in the form of coupons or survey discounts. Always ask to have your receipt handed to you rather than placed in the bag and take a moment to read it before stuffing it in to your pocket or purse. Free future spending money may just be included!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">Enjoy the adventures of saving MORE money this holiday season. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">-dw.</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><br />
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</span>deedubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11141562636137023507noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3822863077944414226.post-13688831047621501742010-11-08T23:00:00.000-08:002010-11-09T10:10:04.273-08:00Restaurants giving back....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0MAh4lRloN15C8HR4JA7k-tpALIOC6AZ_06Z9jjNLqo6EsAFqvIk5K5coNgrYs7wLfDxgesBTeqzvRkdmpAs90abOu-Cri6T7qSKmRd2XD-MHH-g1CJovbcffHndDiYS0UjqCcxZJzgxZ/s1600/cornerflag_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0MAh4lRloN15C8HR4JA7k-tpALIOC6AZ_06Z9jjNLqo6EsAFqvIk5K5coNgrYs7wLfDxgesBTeqzvRkdmpAs90abOu-Cri6T7qSKmRd2XD-MHH-g1CJovbcffHndDiYS0UjqCcxZJzgxZ/s1600/cornerflag_2.jpg" /></a></div>If you are a Veteran or active military person you could be eating for FREE this Thursday (or other specified date) in observance of Veterans Day! <br />
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Here are just a few of the places giving back a little something for those of you who fight to preserve our freedom...<br />
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Click on the restaurant links to get more details about participating locations and specific dates and times.<br />
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</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJaZ2zr17ZPbNefE0MpjktPYkVjHTQiRYaffQqTwkOz83cbYqc9WQLmsibQdRzaBXIysJnANV6yN4AIOflu89_-s3Tb28UCHQA-8znY8u7Xo-U_sDdvoCHtHynBPA1m5Dz_CyPDweQyoQn/s1600/applebees.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJaZ2zr17ZPbNefE0MpjktPYkVjHTQiRYaffQqTwkOz83cbYqc9WQLmsibQdRzaBXIysJnANV6yN4AIOflu89_-s3Tb28UCHQA-8znY8u7Xo-U_sDdvoCHtHynBPA1m5Dz_CyPDweQyoQn/s200/applebees.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="http://www.outback.com/companyinfo/thanksforgiving.aspx">Outback Steakhouse</a>: Free Blooming Onion</div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="http://www.famousdaves.com/promo/veterans-day/">Famous Dave's</a>: Free meal from special menu.</div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="http://www.applebees.com/vetsDay/">Applebees</a>: Free entree from special menu.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="http://www.chilis.com/images/fb/veteransday/CUS%2010-053B%20VetDayMenu.pdf">Chili's</a>: Free meal from special menu.<br />
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<a href="http://little.know-where.com/littlecaesars/cgi/selection?state-map=WA&mapid=US&lang=en&design=default&country=US&region_name=Washington&region=&place=98311&x=17&y=9">Little Caesars Pizza</a>: Free Crazy Bread at Bremerton, WA location<br />
(Due to franchising, other locations may not be participating.)<br />
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<a href="http://www.goldencorral.com/military/">Golden Corral:</a> Free Buffet on 11/15.<br />
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Thank you all for the dedication you've displayed, the sacrifices you've made, and the freedom you've fought for. God Bless you and your families.<br />
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enjoy the gratitudes you so deeply deserve.<br />
-dw</div>deedubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11141562636137023507noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3822863077944414226.post-4030144647891056842010-11-05T16:05:00.000-07:002010-11-09T10:47:10.370-08:00My favorite time of year!<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">House decorated. Check. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Thanksgiving menu complete. Check. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Christmas shopping started. Check. </span></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgbLgoj_anM56HgFW9t81bZoFsB9wYd3FTqHDIksWSR-x5IQTh4HPWccmZqxkwdPYkoo4N81LHpUB0yYveHn79AIUEeJaFE22RqzsYq6Id_sJF3cJ91qqLqwanbVYyfYX5UcheNS_j4r7I/s1600/101_3543.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgbLgoj_anM56HgFW9t81bZoFsB9wYd3FTqHDIksWSR-x5IQTh4HPWccmZqxkwdPYkoo4N81LHpUB0yYveHn79AIUEeJaFE22RqzsYq6Id_sJF3cJ91qqLqwanbVYyfYX5UcheNS_j4r7I/s320/101_3543.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: large;">It's official....I've got Fall Fever! </span></div><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">When asked what holiday is my favorite, my response usually surprises people. It's Thanksgiving. While I completely LOVE Christmas, I find myself the most excited each year when Thanksgiving is on the horizon. I love the smells, foods and gratitude of the season. I love leaves and gourds and candles decorating my entire home. I love the calmness of the day even with the chaos in the kitchen. I love the turkey dinner. I love the dining room table filled to the brim with family and friends. I simply love everything about it!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Thanksgiving has not been tainted by over-commercialism. The only ads we see seem to highlight happy families gathered around a large dining table, ready to carve into a bit-too-perfect-looking turkey. I can deal with that. My turkey may not arrive at the table as the centerpiece, but it tastes awesome! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">With Thanksgiving also comes the excitement of Christmas shopping...the Day-After Sales and now even the Weeks-Before Sales. I like that too. I'm an organized person by nature and that helps me to manage through the shopping season with ease. I write a list, check the ads, and watch for sales. I love the thrill of the hunt for that perfect gift at just the right price. That is <em>my</em> fall sport. Guys have football, I have gift shopping. I find by starting before Thanksgiving I can get great buys, avoid sold-out dilemmas, and beat the crowds. What more can one ask for?!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Are you ready for Thanksgiving? Get out your notepad, make those lists, and get started. It will ignite the holiday spirit within you too!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">enjoy the holiday preparations.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">-dw.</span>deedubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11141562636137023507noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3822863077944414226.post-81727019438783806762010-11-02T06:00:00.000-07:002010-11-02T06:00:11.615-07:00Feeling Lucky?<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">If you like Lucky Charms cereal and are a movie buff, like myself, you are in for a BIG treat!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">While shopping at Target yesterday I spotted Lucky Charms cereal on sale. We were out at home, so naturally I reached for a box. After noticing the promotion on the box, I grabbed three more! (It's okay, the expiration date isn't until 9/2011!) </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtGPuLuW4bvkIq4BJWgA6m33VfDKlofAQMlr2zrgKv6ONuC9A5zomSdrj9WwPOJ-IC-u1EQo9jd00B30eggSNRmRZwFD85nhZP9aldQelrputFpAGJ7oXbQL4lyHpWi5YEXoqHODEL0Of9/s1600/103_3449.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" nx="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtGPuLuW4bvkIq4BJWgA6m33VfDKlofAQMlr2zrgKv6ONuC9A5zomSdrj9WwPOJ-IC-u1EQo9jd00B30eggSNRmRZwFD85nhZP9aldQelrputFpAGJ7oXbQL4lyHpWi5YEXoqHODEL0Of9/s320/103_3449.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">General Mills is giving away a FREE movie ticket with the purchase of two (specially marked) boxes of Lucky Charms, Honey Nut Cheerios, Cinnamon Toast Crunch, Trix, and Reese's Puffs cereals. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span> </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Target's price was $2.50 per box, so total cost of </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">2 boxes of cereal</span> and <span style="font-size: large;">1 movie ticket</span> (valued up to $12) = <span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="color: black;">$</span>5.00</span>!</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span> </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">You don't have to be a math whiz to know THIS is a GREAT DEAL! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span> </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">enjoy the movie!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">-dw.</span>deedubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11141562636137023507noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3822863077944414226.post-2010106726280377022010-11-01T15:35:00.000-07:002010-11-01T16:09:54.037-07:00Ready, Set.....Let's Try Out Those Recipes!<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I confess......I have been a collector of recipes since I was in my late teens; and while I've always collected them, I haven't always cooked them! It's not that I haven't meant to, it's just another example of how time gets away from us. Like most women, I got busy with work and family and tended to just fall back on the quick, in-my-head favorites that I knew everyone (already) loved. Well now, with my children grown and gone and life slowing down for me a great deal, I've decided to break out the recipe files and start experimenting! It is my hope to try at least one new recipe each week (give or take). I'll promptly dispose of the recipes we do not enjoy, and share with you those we do!</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTSgoNJ90O4qXgU9heMflrGStgsqDj8DS59emRvnTsPNwWQadf4K6ie0MpcFTdgz_YJjYJRFcBTlJUnKd4aRfjN-GS5JgzZV6ZRwCUBC8hK17dPh9DkFYozQtzyEOmxfr0Zp_UUsAcAJLg/s1600/sausage+bake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="200" nx="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTSgoNJ90O4qXgU9heMflrGStgsqDj8DS59emRvnTsPNwWQadf4K6ie0MpcFTdgz_YJjYJRFcBTlJUnKd4aRfjN-GS5JgzZV6ZRwCUBC8hK17dPh9DkFYozQtzyEOmxfr0Zp_UUsAcAJLg/s200/sausage+bake.jpg" width="200" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><strong>Week One</strong> was a <a href="http://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/Hash-Brown-Sausage-Bake">recipe</a> I pulled from </span><a href="http://www.tasteofhome.com/Recipes"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Taste of Home magazine</span></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> and couldn't wait to try out! I love breakfast casseroles and was excited to try one with a different spin - a crust made up of hash browns! Mmmm....it was every bit as tasty as it looked! My rating: 9</span><br />
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<strong><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: large;">Hash Brown Sausage Bake</span></strong><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Prep: 30 min. Bake: 40 min. </span><br />
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<strong><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Ingredients:</span></strong><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">1 package (20 ounces) refrigerated shredded hash brown potatoes</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">1/3 cup butter, melted</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">1 teaspoon beef bouillon granules</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">1 pound bulk pork sausage (we used Jimmy Dean)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">1/3 cup chopped onion (we omitted)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">1 cup (8 ounces) 4% cottage cheese (we used 2% instead)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">3 eggs, lightly beaten</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">4 slices process American cheese, chopped (we used grated Colby Jack cheese instead)</span><br />
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<strong><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Directions:</span></strong><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">In a large bowl, combine the (melted) butter, bouillon and hash browns. Press onto the bottom and up the sides of a greased 10-in. pie plate. Bake at 350° for 25-30 minutes or until edges are lightly browned. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Meanwhile, in a large skillet, cook sausage and onion over medium heat until meat is no longer pink; drain. In a large bowl, combine the sausage mixture, cottage cheese, eggs and cheese. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Pour into crust. Bake at 350° for 40-45 minutes or until a knife inserted near the center comes out clean. Let stand for 5 minutes before cutting. Yield: 6-8 servings. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Nutrition Facts: 1 serving (1 piece) equals 338 calories, 23 g fat (11 g saturated fat), 134 mg cholesterol, 704 mg sodium, 18 g carbohydrate, 1 g fiber, 13 g protein. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Okay, so it isn't the best thing for my diet, but it was sooooooo delicious! We can't wait to make it again!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">One last confession......All the culinary credit goes to Bryan, as he prepared the entire meal! I only conferred on the recipe substitutions and did the shopping! What a deal, right?!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">enjoy trying new things, </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">-dw.</span>deedubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11141562636137023507noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3822863077944414226.post-63668306643068334692010-10-27T08:48:00.000-07:002010-10-27T08:49:51.615-07:00Tip of the Day...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAivx2baAfGjwaIPOEMPeCy0ZLHSbNbzEonNrdY8Q6VXTYAlqPqEG-bK2bbhAIsB5ohNbssnRRAAE8LRjSNlB_vdxAhNW3M03f6af0gwZ2J49OtiaxLPOKSs0XLithe7mzXPx4SobJ8xcT/s1600/evileyes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="188" nx="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAivx2baAfGjwaIPOEMPeCy0ZLHSbNbzEonNrdY8Q6VXTYAlqPqEG-bK2bbhAIsB5ohNbssnRRAAE8LRjSNlB_vdxAhNW3M03f6af0gwZ2J49OtiaxLPOKSs0XLithe7mzXPx4SobJ8xcT/s200/evileyes.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Did you know a dash of cinnamon could save your Jack-o-lantern from premature death?! <br />
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When you sprinkle carved pumpkins with ground cinnamon, a natural food preservative, it seals in the moisture and keeps the luminaries from having to be thrown away quite so soon. Be sure to sprinkle the cinnamon on all raw, exposed portions and when you light it up it will add a wonderful scent to the night as well! <br />
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Thanks to <a href="http://www.rachaelraymag.com/">Everyday with Rachael Ray</a> magazine for this awesome tip! <br />
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Click <a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/index.php?option=com_resource&controller=article&category_id=273&article=21465">HERE</a> for some free templates for carving your masterpiece this year!<br />
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enjoy!<br />
-dw.deedubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11141562636137023507noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3822863077944414226.post-9410974482928670892010-10-26T16:23:00.000-07:002010-10-27T08:32:21.723-07:00Think Outside the Scrapbook<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">The great part about having my craft studio unpacked and organized again is that I can see what all I have. And believe me, after being in the papercrafting industry for over 15 years, I have more than I can probably ever use in my scrapbooks! That's why, when decorating for holidays around my house, I always turn to my scrapbook supplies first. There is a gold mine of great, seasonal goodies just waiting to be used and enjoyed. </span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; height: 142px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; width: 201px;"><img border="0" height="150" nx="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk6_CJRax6sbnDB7thYgoCvxsTa41WfNdfNqtP-gsLGSqOD7Nv3Y2Na8mmR1YXC5Wjr1AHqLUepybcOWss_6Rhm_XhU97LB3czkDoYCoeW8vlZu8tPbJF679Zpx0LVX4sUqTVD7stWaMS0/s200/101_3435.JPG" width="200" /></span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU4TTGuXkXqgxOTwpbeoiI6Q6Mcmt0flEdDr0zWIBBgzEGJADI5uDKzWTDDo63akTx6z4usn2UPv3oLltt8-4eav65iv6Quy_J7g02fEqtfKQYEZ1l070asj-cfaXeESnjxUjsXXKaxWla/s1600/101_3436.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" nx="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU4TTGuXkXqgxOTwpbeoiI6Q6Mcmt0flEdDr0zWIBBgzEGJADI5uDKzWTDDo63akTx6z4usn2UPv3oLltt8-4eav65iv6Quy_J7g02fEqtfKQYEZ1l070asj-cfaXeESnjxUjsXXKaxWla/s200/101_3436.JPG" width="150" /></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">For Halloween I wanted to send a little goodie-bag to my daughter who lives out of state. Nothing fancy, just a little sweet surprise to make her feel less far away. So I repurposed a gift box I'd been saving, added some raffia and a die cut (that has long since been discontinued). I hadn't found a use for it on my scrapbook page, but once I saw it in the drawer I knew it would make the perfect tag! I simply cut it in two pieces, punched a hole in the "new" piece and created a quick, cute gift tag. Total original cost .75, being able to use things I already owned...priceless!</span></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9GpE4wyb4LW21AB5DVwCnX_0A-oQLMM4RWsXg9rf_jDlThuZWqsLD7W6mdIAdPgIWBsa9fZJxYb-X1krLzwk-toSJ0QzXBktPOQOPSImbLJgf93AA9EUcEwXImBsedefoeeJpeFSZ0Ww_/s1600/101_3424.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" nx="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9GpE4wyb4LW21AB5DVwCnX_0A-oQLMM4RWsXg9rf_jDlThuZWqsLD7W6mdIAdPgIWBsa9fZJxYb-X1krLzwk-toSJ0QzXBktPOQOPSImbLJgf93AA9EUcEwXImBsedefoeeJpeFSZ0Ww_/s320/101_3424.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Since I've never been one to decorate much for Halloween, I go right into fall/Thanksgiving decorating mode. </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I love the smell of pumpkin and cinnamon in the air and leaves and gourds everywhere around my home. </span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">This year I decided to add a little flair to the photographs sitting on the bar next to the dining room table. To one, I added a simple little fall die cut on the outside of the glass, while the other I replaced the white mat around the photo with fall scrapbook paper. In a matter of seconds it looks as if I bought all new frames! </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP1khsjaektc6TwmavtXS87bh3G5CEEQ9Uyu3RaoJIM-S2NMTBHhv5l9tPywEub8OB0IKzFTky5F7lNWfM05eWYxQ5YPKGF-jcixIEnasQ98TxOpqsQi8Ac3WcWR4KlyrwMpz_vL0ZYhhp/s1600/101_3418.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" nx="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP1khsjaektc6TwmavtXS87bh3G5CEEQ9Uyu3RaoJIM-S2NMTBHhv5l9tPywEub8OB0IKzFTky5F7lNWfM05eWYxQ5YPKGF-jcixIEnasQ98TxOpqsQi8Ac3WcWR4KlyrwMpz_vL0ZYhhp/s320/101_3418.JPG" width="240" /></a></div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Then I took advantage of two FREE photo printing offers (Walgreen's 8x10 collage print and Walmart's 5x7 photo cards - after tax, total cost = .13!) I cut out the small collage pictures and placed them around one of my favorite decor items....a circular card/note holder. With the addition of a few quote die cuts in fall colors, it is now a Thanksgiving photo wreath! The only new purchase made for the entire bar top area, were the two candles. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">enjoy bringing the colors of fall into your home!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">-dw.</span></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>deedubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11141562636137023507noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3822863077944414226.post-64960658834368084152010-10-13T15:55:00.000-07:002010-10-13T15:55:31.452-07:00Quote of the Day...<span style="color: #783f04; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">“<span style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-size: large;">Be</span> <span style="font-size: large;">thankful</span></span> for what you <span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">have</span>; you’ll end up having <span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">more</span>. </span><br />
<span style="color: #783f04; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">If you concentrate on what you don’t have, you will never, ever have enough.”</span><br />
<span style="color: #783f04; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"></span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">–Oprah Winfrey</span>deedubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11141562636137023507noreply@blogger.com0